British soldiers die in Kabul shoot-out after row

Two British soldiers on peacekeeping duties in Kabul died in a shoot-out during an argument at a party on a military base in the Afghan capital, it was reported last night.

Military police are investigating the incident in which Sergeant Robert Busuttil and Corporal John Gregory, both 30, were killed. They are said to have been drinking on the Souter Camp base when one pulled a pistol, prompting the other to retaliate.

Both men, of the Combat Service Support Battalion, based at Bulford Camp, Wiltshire, suffered fatal wounds during the struggle in the early hours of Saturday. They were on a six month tour of duty in Kabul. Sgt Busuttil was married. Cpl Gregory was single.

A Ministry of Defence spokeswoman said yesterday that no one else was involved in the incident, but could not comment on the circumstances. A coroner was flying to Kabul. However, army sources did not deny the account. They said that boredom was a serious problem for troops confined to the camp. Hot weather and a lack of entertainment led to tensions.

A spokesman for the commanding officer of British forces in Kabul said a police investigation was under way and a coroner's court would be convened in England.

"I would once again like to express, on behalf of all British service personnel in Kabul, our deepest sympathies to both families," he added.

The deaths bring the total number of fatalities involving British troops in Afghanistan to three. In April, 23-year-old Lance Corporal Darren George, of the Royal Anglian Regiment, was killed by "friendly fire" while on patrol.

Britain has about 400 troops in the Turkish-led, 5,000-strong international security assistance force (Isaf) in Kabul.